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JUMADA I 1433 - JUMADA II 1433 ··· APRIL 2012 ··· ISSUE: 20

Will the Islamic Parties Deliver on Their Promises?

PRINCIPLES AND POLITICS CAN MIX - UNDERSTANDING ‘DAR AL-KUFR’ & ‘DAR AL- ISLAM’ - WOMEN OF HIZB UT-TAHRIR ORGANISE HISTORIC INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE (TUNISIA) - THE ILLUSION OF ECONOMIC GROWTH - THE REALITY OF AN ISRAELI ATTACK ON IRAN - REPLACE SHEIKH HASINA'S BANKRUPT REGIME WITH THE ISLAMIC KHILAFAH STATE - DECIPHERING THE “TURKISH MODEL” OF GOVERNMENT NEWSBITES needed by those people who feel excluded Commenting on Ahmad’s BBC interview in in society; and unemployment amongst April 2012, former US prosecutor David young people has reached historic levels. Raskin told journalists that the US constitution was ‘generous’ to those Furthermore, the secular nature of society, defending themselves against prosecution! excluding religion from life’s affairs is such Maybe if you’re a US soldier who murders that it gives no fixed standards of rights and Muslims in Kandahar or Haditha. But try wrongs that means almost two generations telling that to Dr Aafia Siddiqui and others BOSNIA – 20 YEARS ON of parents find it very hard to guide their who have tasted the bitter reality of so- Media outlets highlighted the 20-year children with a stronger set of values than called US ‘justice’. anniversary of the war in Bosnia breaking the materialistic and individualistic ones out this April. What wasn’t highlighted was propagated in the media. the shameful embargo NATO forces imposed on the Bosnian Muslims (Serbs were Finally, mistrust of the police – particularly provided weapons from Russia), the amongst minority ethnic communities – is appalling siege of Sarajevo which western endemic. The riots started when Mark governments allowed to continue 3 times Duggan, a black man, was shot and the longer than the siege of Stalingrad, or police escaped fundamental scrutiny on perhaps most troubling the capitulation of their actions. In addition, this week the the UN “protection” forces which effectively British media has been filled with stories left the population of Srebrenica to be about racism in the London’s police force. slaughtered at the hands of the Serb marauders of Ratko Mladic (more than 8,000 Unsurprisingly, no one as yet seems to be men and boys were executed in cold blood). brave or honest enough to examine the BRITAIN INVITES BUTCHER OF The targeted rape of thousands of Muslim causes that seem endemic to capitalism, BAHRAIN TO JUBILEE women and young girls, even toddlers have secularism and national identity. CELEBRATIONS, AFTER THEIR left an entire population traumatised. And all DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS THE within a Europe that had said “never again” MONSTER OF UZBEKISTAN after Hitler. Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s ruler, has been invited to attend the British Queen’s Bosnia gave us the media term of “ethnic Diamond Jubilee celebrations, rendering cleansing” and it was predominantly the meaningless the Foreign Office’s Muslims that were “cleansed”. The Dayton protestations about the murderous actions Accord perhaps epitomised all that of Middle East tyrants. happened best. Western interventions were late (after 100,000 died), were one sided Over the past year, the Bahrain regime has (giving half the land to the aggressor Serbs), not only massacred protestors and succeeded in dividing the populations demonstrating against the regime, they on nationalist grounds, creating further MUSLIM SETS A NEW RECORD IN THE locked up doctors and nurses who treated problems which will rumble on for decades. UK! the injured protestors. A Muslim has set a landmark record in the BRITAIN’S RIOTS IN 2011: CAUSED BY UK. Sadly, it is not an achievement anyone Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is, apparently, also ‘POOR PARENTING’? would welcome. set to attend a champagne dinner hosted by An independent government-appointed Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace. panel, set up to study the causes of last Babar Ahmad has spent over 7 years in a summer's riots calls in the UK, has identified maximum-security prison without being None of this should surprise anyone – and the causes for last years riots as poor charged, put on trial or even seeing the certainly, no one should trust any British parenting, a failure of the justice system to evidence against him. This is the longest government statements opposing the rehabilitate offenders, materialism and time in British history anyone has been brutality of Assad, Gaddafi or anyone else. suspicion of the police. In 2011, another imprisoned without being put on trial. report by the Guardian Newspaper and the In February 2012, British Defence Secretary London School of Economics (LSE) The reason is that the United States Philip Hammond met with Uzbek President, interviewed 270 of the rioters and found a government asked for his extradition to the Islam Karimov, one of the world’s most complex mix of grievances including USA. ruthless dictators and architect of the distrust and antipathy toward police as key Andijan massacre of 2005, in Tashkent to driving forces. The crime he is alleged to have committed discuss closer military co-operation. He and is that he ran a website from the UK, that the LibDem Armed Forces Minister Nick Sadly, most of these factors – which are sits on a server in the USA. The website, it is Harvey visited all five Central Asian systemic - are unlikely to disappear in a said, was campaigning to support the republics. It is reported that Mr Hammond hurry. Chechen mujahedeen – a struggle that was made no public mention of widespread considered legitimate by the UK and USA – human rights abuses during his trip, but if The economic situation in Britain and until their extreme labeling of jihad he had, such visits and invites would render austerity measures to control the budget struggles as ‘terrorism’. these mere hollow words. deficit are likely to cut the social programs n

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Nicholas Sarkosy is forced to be even inconsistencies of this model. more right-wing than his usual hawkish Will the self, to out manoeuvre the fascist Marine But by contrast, Dr Nasreen Nawaz’s Le-Pen. The victims of this election will coverage of the International Women’s be minorities generally and Muslims Khilafah Conference offers the people of Islamic specifically, who will be scape-goated by the region a different vision, based on all politicians to play to the basest Islam. Similarly Mohamad Arif’s instincts of the masses. presentation of Islamic economic Parties solutions is a step forward to presenting Sadly, Egypt appears to be entering the ideas that are needed to introduce a election mode accepting the capitalist new thinking into the Muslim world. Deliver on democratic system and nation state model that Britain and France have. And However, the real hope of real change is the politics may well get as unethical. in the hearts, minds, chants and blood of the beautiful people of Syria. They have Their In a striking U-turn, the Muslim maintained their pure Islamic call, Brotherhood – who vowed not to stand despite massacres by the regime and in presidential elections – have put international conspiracies. They are ﷺ Promises? forward not one, but two candidates. sacrificing, inshallah, like the Prophet Moreover, one of these received a and his companions sacrificed before pardon from the ruling military Allah brought them from the hardships Election fever is in the air. There are authority [SCAF] to pave the way for his and fear of insecurity to the security of Presidential elections scheduled for May standing, leaving some people feeling the Islamic State in Medina. 2012 in Egypt; French Presidential that they had colluded with SCAF in elections are scheduled for April & May order to secure a position for themselves Al Tabarani narrated that the Messenger once said: “Do you know ﷺ and London is in the midst of a and, in so doing, undermined the of Allah ;2012 bitter electoral contest. revolution. what Allah says about al-Sham? Allah Ta’ala says “Al-Sham you are safwati min The elections in the mature democracies Our article by Sajjad Khan [Principles bilaadi (the best of My lands) and I shall of Britain and France give some flavour and Politics Can Mix] highlights the inhabit you with the chosen ones among of how the systems work in the similar inconsistencies of the Ennahda My slaves.” capitalist system. Party in Tunisia, in their placing of power over their former principled May Allah make those brave people His The two main candidates of Ken position that won them so much respect chosen ones. May He protect them and Livingstone and Boris Johnson in in the hearts of the people during the reward them with His Victory. London have accused each other of Ben-Ali years. Similarly, Adnan Khan’s being liars – and barely say a civil word critique of the western-endorsed Ameen to each other. The victims of this ‘Turkish model’, that some seem so keen n election are truth and civility. to emulate, highlights the failings and www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 3 SAJJAD KHAN

the ones we see in the West, are deeply flawed. Power is distributed amongst different politicians or institutions, not to have checks and balances, but to PRINCIPLES encourage division and to stop strong leadership. Indeed elections are a necessary smokescreen to allow the illusion of societal participation to cover the real reality that power is exercised by an unelected elite. Having multiple AND POLITICS institutions such as lower or upper houses or constitutional restrictions ensures nothing can get done which is too radical. CAN MIX 2. Secondly the IPINO’s should realise that they are not indispensable. The people who elected them in their millions want Islam, what they don’t want is a diluted Islam, or a diet Islam or some kind of Islam Zero. If the people wanted western secularism, they would have voted for candidates from Liberal parties. If the IPINO’s don’t deliver what they promised, they will face a serious revolt. If they think this won’t happen, they should consult Hosni Mubarak.

3. Thirdly their political calculations are rooted in myths. First they believe that an Islamic system can only be implemented gradually, why? Do liberal politicians ever n Tunisia, in Morocco, in Egypt, voters When it comes to applying Islamic talk about implementing their values in their millions have clearly expressed economics, they cite the need to avoid gradually? No they don’t, everyone knows Itheir opposition to secular liberal scaring international investors and there’s a distinction between determining values and their strong desire for Islamic tourists. When it comes to applying the a policy and when it can be executed. government. Islamic foreign policy, they cite the need Implementing an Islamic System can be a to show a moderate image and to appease Day 1 decision even if it takes weeks, Yet the same parties that went to great the west. months or even years for all the benefits lengths to demonstrate their Islamic to be fully seen. Secondly the idea that credentials to the masses in the election Indeed such is their caution, weakness Islamic solutions aren’t ready to solve Day campaign, are now going to great lengths and desire to please, they have now 1 problems such as poverty, to demonstrate their moderation to the become Islamic Politicians in Name Only unemployment or education are simply West now. (IPINO). The inferiority complex of the not correct. Islam’s economic vision on IPINO’s has no bounds, having been in creating a strong industrial base, focussing Indeed in their rush to placate so called opposition so long, they almost cannot on land reform and taxing wealth not international opinion, they have believe the opportunity they now have. incomes, are practical solutions that abandoned all pretence to Islamic politics, Yet they are now in danger of wasting the would benefit our economies today. Islam is now the word that dare not be huge mandate that they have been given. mentioned. The IPINO’s have thus made at least six 4. By avoiding the tough decisions, strategic mistakes in their politics thus IPINO’s end up implementing the same In doing so, they think they are being far: failed capitalist solutions that have not pragmatic, smart and politically savvy. Yet just bankrupted our countries but all they have shown is their opportunism, 1. Firstly the IPINO’s have locked brought the western world to the brink of their double standards and that when it themselves into a straitjacket by economic collapse. Indeed it is comes to sticking to principles, they are participating within flawed elections in a patronising to the tens of millions of the no better than their secular counterparts. flawed system under a flawed framework. citizens that voted for Islamic solutions When it comes to applying Islamic Elections are a critical part of any political that they aren’t somehow ready to face politics they cite constitutional barriers system (including the Khilafah’s), the the consequences of the very solutions and the need to keep minorities onside. elections we saw in the Muslim world like they voted for.

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treaties. By doing so they have shown that 5. The idea that implementing an Islamic naked opportunism is not confined to system will scare minorities, scare secular parties. investors and scare international opinion is true and false. False in the sense that How can these people after being put in the Islamic system has a fantastic track jails by the previous tyrants now seek to record in dealing justly with those who implement the very same policies of the don’t share the Islamic faith. But true in very same tyrants. How can they say they the sense that the current international oppose US foreign policy, yet meekly system needs a jolt. When the current accept US aid and hegemony. How can world is dominated by billions in poverty, they say they stand with the Muslims of Those who pursue the right path, will where wars are fought over oil and where Palestine when they are not prepared to bring in not just a new system, not just a the powerful states exploit the weak, then even rescind the Camp David Agreement. new era, but a new politics which will such a system needs to be challenged. The inspire the whole world. idea that by implementing Islam PRINCIPLES AND POLITICS CAN somehow would be an act of naivety MIX Over the last year, thousands of protesters because one must be cognisant of the took to the streets, then tens of international situation is itself an act of What is required from sincere politicians thousands, then millions. And in the face naivety. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is a new politics, a new outlook and a of tear gas, batons and bullets, they was not naive when he challenged the new vision. refused to go home. Hour after hour, day Romans and the Persians, but he fully after day, week after week, until dictators understood that international politics was A vision that focuses on increasing who ruled for decades were forced from power. Those who pursue the right path, will bring in not just a new system, not just a new era, but a new politics So let us be clear that though some of the tyrants have gone, their corrupt systems which will inspire the whole world. remain. And while this remains the case, there will be no let up. So during these dark days, the hope carries on, the dream about projecting ideological power. If you prosperity, jobs and helping the poor. of a more just system still lives, the as a nation don’t project your values, One where people are the priority not obligation endures and the work to re- principles and policies than other nations western multinationals. establish the Khilafah will never stop. will. This is why the West not only The people of Tunisia, Egypt and Libya implements its values at home but spends A vision that looks to bring land reform, sacrificed their sweat, their blood and tens of billions to spread its message tax reform and to ensure critical some made the ultimate sacrifice. These abroad. resources are owned by the state to people deserve better, than to be let benefit the many not the few. down again by new politicians 6. Lastly the IPINO’s are walking into a implementing the old politics. strategic trap. By abandoning Islam at A vision that has a leadership accountable home, they effectively will implement a to public opinion not to international “Indeed, We sent down the Torah, in liberal secular agenda which will opinion. which was guidance and light. The exclusively benefit a westernised elite. In prophets who submitted [to Allah] the future their inability to present a All this is possible if the political will is judged by it for the Jews, as did the coherent Islamic agenda will be used by present. As the life of our Prophet rabbis and scholars by that with which their political opponents and western Muhammad (saw) showed us, the they were entrusted of the Scripture of elites as evidence of the failure of Islamic challenges will not be easy, achieving real Allah, and they were witnesses thereto. politics to solve problems in the Muslim political change never is. So do not fear the people but fear Me, world. Indeed the main danger that the and do not exchange My verses for a IPINO’s risk is not to themselves, but to There is no easy path to progress, no small price. And whoever does not judge the cause they purport to care about. shortcuts to real change and hardship by what Allah has revealed - then it is always accompanies the task. those who are the disbelievers”. [TMQ Their reluctance to implement Islam in its 5:44] entirety risks giving the impression that Our Ummah’s history has shown us time n the Islamic system can’t solve the after time that what seemed impossible problems of the day became reality with the help of Allah (swt). Indeed some IPINO’s are now even ready to turn a blind eye to blatantly Un-Islamic The Khilafah showed it could rise up to industries, accept US hegemony and sit the challenges in the past, we believe it down with Israel to validate peace can rise up to the challenges today. www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 5 ABU ISMAEL AL-BEIRAWI Understanding ‘Dar al-Kufr’ & ‘Dar al-Islam’

(leader of the believers).

The election wins of EnNahda in Tunisia and the Muslim Brotherhood in the form of the Freedom and Justice party in Egypt has also sparked the debate of what makes a state Islamic. Electoral Parties in Egypt have argued over the semantics of the proposed constitution as to whether to include Islam as ‘the main source of law’ ignoring the Quranic obligation of making the Shariah the ‘only’ source of law.

We are also seeing a trend of modernist thinkers attempting to argue away the Islamic paradigm altogether, interestingly their narrative fits into the western campaign against political Islam. An oft quoted bastion of this new heretical polemic, Tariq Ramadan states: “The concepts of Dar al-Islam, Dar al-harb, and Dar al-‘ahd were not described in the Qur’an or in the Sunna. In fact they t is unfortunate that the Islamic constituted a human attempt, at a concepts, definitions and Sadly, some attempt to classify countries moment in history, to describe the world terminologies which were well as Islamic or not utilising criterion other and to provide the Muslim community I with a geopolitical scheme that is known by Muslims and codified by than those established by the Shariah Islamic scholarship for centuries have in evidences. So Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s appropriate to the reality of the time. [1] more recent times become vague, condemnation of Israel and overt stance This reality has completely changed”. distorted or in some cases totally absent. against America lead some to argue that One such issue is the subject of Dar al- Iran has been Dar al-Islam, a legitimate Furthermore, we also find some amongst Kufr (land of disbelief) and Dar al-Islam Islamic state since the Iranian revolution the Islamic movements who claim to be (land of Islam). by Ayatollah Khomeni in 1979. They working for the re-establishment of point to the implementation of some Khilafah not having a clear idea of the Understanding the distinction between Islamic laws to back this claim. The Saudi definition and scriptural proofs for an the two is vital when it comes to Arabian regime together with many of Islamic state. Dar al-Islam and Khilafah evaluating present regimes in the its clerics continue to postulate that it is should not just be slogans but rather a Muslim world and in the aftermath of an Islamic state and thus working to serious objective which we are the Arab spring is essential in order to remove the corrupt regime is bughat or practically working to achieve. We determine what changes to a an Islamically illegitimate rebellion. King cannot pray Salah properly without constitution and state are necessary to Abdullah has even reported to have knowing its pillars (arkan) and make it more than just Islamic in name. declared himself as Ameer al-Mu’mineen conditions (shuroot) so how can we work for an Islamic state without

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knowing the same?

Thus it is important for the definition, meaning and evidences for Dar al-Islam and its distinction from Dar al-Kufr to be clarified.

DEFINITION

In Arabic terms may have a linguistic (laghawi) usage and a technical (istilaahi) usage. Islamic scholarship has traditionally focused discussion on technical definitions of terms. These comprise terms that are discussed and defined by the Shariah texts such as salat, zakat, hajj, siyam; terms that are descriptive like mutawatir, ahad, sanad, qati, zanni and terms that are to the Hanafi linguist Jurjani in his book necessitate their recognition in order for necessitated through textual injunctions on technical definitions is, “revelation to their implementation. For example, the in order to understand and apply Shariah the Messenger compiled in the Musaahif texts relating to war and peace in Islam rules for example aqeedah (belief), ijma and transmitted through tawatur means recognise relations between states and (consensus) and Dar al-Islam. without doubt”. [2] attempt to regulate them.

The “dar” (pl. diyaar) in the Arabic Others have different definitions such as Whether technical terms appear in texts language has numerous meaning such as Imam Suyuti and Al-Aamidi. If the or not is irrelevant, rather it is required the halting place, the house, abode, definitions are compared, it is apparent that the definitions of such terms should residence and the land. there are a number of differences, embody, reflect and concur with divine including the inclusion or negation in texts. It is true like most technically defined the definition of the following elements: terms in the Islamic sciences the terms “speech of God”, “in the Arabic language” According to Shariah terminology, Dar al- Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Kufr do not and “worship when recited”. Islam is defined as the land which is appear in the source texts i.e. the Quran governed by the laws of Islam and and Sunnah in their technical form. This If the logic of the modernists was whose security (Aman) is maintained by doesn’t mean that the whole subject is followed we would conclude that there the security of Islam, i.e. by the authority indecisive. To conclude that would be are massive differences in the definition and protection of Muslims inside and like saying the term aqeedah is not to be of Quran being the speech of God or in outside the land, even if the majority of found in any verse of Quran or Hadith so Arabic - as these points are disputed its inhabitants are non-Muslims. it is indecisive, a matter which is Dar al-Kufr is the land which is governed ...Dar al-Islam is defined as the land which is governed by the laws of Kufr, and whose security by the laws of Islam and whose security (Aman) is is not maintained by the security (Aman) of Islam, i.e. by other than the authority maintained by the security of ... and security of Muslims, even if the majority of its inhabitants are Muslims. preposterous. hence the Quran must be zanni (speculative). However, the jurists as well So what matters in determining whether These terms were defined by the as all Muslims did not dispute these the land is Dar al-Islam or Dar al-Kufr is scholars in the early centuries of Islam matters and agreed that they are decisive neither the land itself nor its inhabitants, for a purpose, their core meanings are (qat’i) due to the incontestable evidence, rather it is the laws and the security. decisively rooted in the texts and their difference in selection of the words for branches at times disputed. defining the Quran is irrelevant. EVIDENCES

Scholars often differ over the details of The terms Dar al-Islam/Kufr have not The word ‘Dar’ has been used in the terminologies, this in no way negates the been explicitly defined by the Sharia sayings of the Prophet (saw) and by his subject matter as true. For example, the texts, however the Sharia texts companions to mean the domain, or the definition of the term, Quran, according www.khilafah.eu 7 :: Khilafah Magazine :: September 2010 Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 7 ABU ISMAEL AL-BEIRAWI

Islamic State when used in relation to “Have you seen those who claim that being disputed. the Muslims, and the domain where the they believe in that which has been Kuffar have the authority when used for sent down to you, and that which has A similar discussion ensued amongst the the disbelievers. been sent down before you, and they jurists regarding the question of what wish to go for judgement (in their constitutes a Muslim (one who has It is reported on the authority of disputes) to the Taghut (false judges) submitted to Allah) and a Kafir Sulayman bin Buraydah, “Whenever the while they have been ordered to reject (disbeliever). This necessitated a Messenger of Allah appointed anyone as them?” [TMQ: 4: 60] criterion to be extracted from the texts leader of an army...He would say...When that deal with this topic directly or you meet your enemies from the “Judge between them by that which indirectly. Detailed discussions exploring polytheists, invite them to three courses Allah has revealed and do not follow all aspects of this criterion and its of action. If they respond to any one of their desires and beware of them lest implications resulted in a consensus these, accept it and restrain yourself they seduce you from some part of that amongst the jurists of core criteria of from doing them harm. Invite them to which Allah has revealed to you.” [TMQ what it means to be a Muslim and what Islam; if they respond, accept it and 5:49] constitutes apostasy that would make desist from fighting. Then invite them to them a disbeliever. Likewise, the migrate from their Dar to the Dar of the We also find the usage of the ‘Dar’ question of what constitutes a land or Muhajireen (emigrants) and inform terminology amongst the Sahaba. society which has submitted to Allah them if they do so, they shall have all the was discussed in detail and a core privileges and obligations of the It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari on the criterion agreed upon along with when Muhajireen. If they refuse, tell them they authority of Ibn Abbas that once when this transitions to a non-Islamic land. will have the status of the Bedouin Abdul Rahman bin ‘Awf was speaking Muslims and will be subjected to the with Omar Bin Al-Khattab (ra) who was The jurists considered texts that centred Commands of Allah like other the Khaleefah at the time, he said, around the concepts: authority and Muslims...’” [3] ruling; security and safety; war and “Do not be harsh on them (speaking peace; practice of Islam (outside the What does this Hadith indicate? It is that about some of the Hujaaj) until they state); migration and ownership of land. if they did not move from their land to return to Madinah, which is Dar al-Hijrah, the land of the Muhajireen they would Dar al-Sunnah and Dar ul-Salaama.” [6] The famous Hanafi jurist Imaam Al- not enjoy the rights of the emigrants Kasaani (died 587 AH) said, “There is no who are living in the land of Islam. So It is recorded that Khalid Bin Waleed (ra) disagreement among the ahnaaf this Hadith clearly shows the difference wrote a letter to the people of Hirah (a (scholars of the Hanafi Madhab), that Dar between those who move to the land of place close to Bahrain) and he said, “I al-Kufr becomes Dar al-Islam, when the the Muhajireen and those who do not. write this to you: if any of you become rules of Islam becomes dominant. Our Dar al-Muhajireen was the land of Islam old, poor or ill or his people have to brothers only dispute on how Dar al- at the time of the Prophet (saw), and all donate to maintain his livelihood I will Islam transfers to become Dar al-Kufr. other lands outside were Dar al-Kufr. never ask Jizya (tax) of him. He will also Our Imam (Abu Haneefah) said, ‘Dar al- receive a grant from the Bait ul-Maal Islam becomes Dar al-Kufr in three In other narrations the Prophet (saw) (treasury of the Islamic state). He and his (situations); when the law and order said: “Medina is the Dar of hijra children will be entitled to this as long becomes Kufr, when the state has a (migration) and Sunnah.” [4] as he resides in Dar ul-Hijrah and Dar al- border with a Kufr (state) without treaty Islam. If they go out (from this or when there is no longer any security “Peace be upon you Dar (land) of the jurisdiction) then the Muslims are no for the Muslim or the Dhimmi Mu’mineen (believers).” [5] longer obliged to provide anything for (citizens).’” [8] them.” [7] There are various other evidences that Qadi Abu Ya’la (died 458 AH) said, “Any the scholars rely on in order to extract DAR AL-ISLAM AND DAR AL-KUFR country where the law is Kufr (disbelief) the definition, such as the definitive ACCORDING TO THE ULEMA instead of Islam is Dar al-Kufr.” [9] verses of the Quran that conclusively establish that the only source of law The terms Dar al-Kufr and Dar al-Islam Ibn Qayyim (died 751 AH) said, “The must be the law of Allah, the Shariah: have been derived from Quran and Jumhour (majority) of the ‘Ulema say, Sunnah, with all classical jurists agreeing ‘Dar al-Islam is where the Muslims go "The Rule is for none but Allah: He to their core meanings, namely Islam and reside and the Islamic rules are declares the truth and He is the best of must be applied and the security of that dominant. If people (the Muslims) reside Judges." [TMQ 6:57] land cannot be in the hands of the in one place and Islam becomes Kuffar, with only some ancillary aspects dominant, that is Dar al-Islam If however,

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Islam does not become dominant it is not (considered) Dar al-Islam even if it is We should also bear in mind that terms in close proximity to the state. Taa’if was can be used in different contexts, this is so close to Makkah (at the time when normal and common practice, for Makkah was Dar al-Islam) but it did not example the term Sunnah has several become part of Dar al-Islam until it was technical usages across the different conquered.’” [10] Islamic sciences, even multiple usages within a given science. It is used to refer Ibn Muflih (died 884 AH) said, “There are to Masdar al-Shariah (source of law), only two, Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Kufr. Seerah (biography), Hadith (narrations), Any Dar (domain) where Islamic law is Mandub (recommended), Nafl dominant is Dar al-Islam, and any domain (supererogatory) etc. These multiple where Kufr law is dominant is Dar al- usages of a term were accepted Kufr, there are only these two camps.” [11] throughout Islamic history and importantly never contradicted Shariah He makes this point as all other rules. categories such as Dar al-Harb (land of war), Dar al-Ahd (land of covenant), Dar Likewise, some jurists also contextually al-Aman (land of security), Dar al-Baghi utilised the terms Dar al-Islam with a

“There are only two, Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Kufr. Any Dar (domain) where Islamic law is dominant is Dar al-Islam, and past when some of the Khulafah raised any domain where Kufr law is dominant is Dar al-Kufr, there taxes unjustly, appointed their children to rule after them, imprisoned scholars are only these two camps.” [Ibn Muflih (died 884 AH) like Imam Ahmad and Imam Malik for accounting them etc. In multiple ahadith (rebellious land) etc are subsets of the different meaning therefore the attempt the Prophet (saw) ordered us to two. by some modernist collaborators to find continue to obey them in this situation a quote from a classical scholar that unless they commit open Kufr. It is interesting to note that the mentions a different meaning to Dar al parliamentary party of the Muslim Islam is disingenuous. As an example the Al-Bukhari narrated on the authority of Brotherhood in Egypt ignores this Shafi'i jurist al-Rafi'i included in his Junada b. abi Umayyah who said: We consensus as espoused by one of their definition that Dar al-Islam once named went to ‘Ubadah b. as-Samit when he greatest thinkers in the past, the martyr as such remains Dar al-Islam until the was sick and we said: May Allah (swt) Sayyid Qutb said, “The whole world in Day of Judgement. [13] guide you. Inform us of a Hadith from the eyes of Islam is divided into two, the the Messenger of Allah (saw) so Allah first is Dar al-Islam, and the second is So here he used it as Dar al-Muslimeen may benefit you from it. He said, “The Dar al-Harb. Dar al-Islam is where the i.e. that it is Muslim land. These Messenger of Allah (saw) called upon us Shari’ah of Islam alone is implemented, considerations never conflicted with and we gave him the Bai’ah, and he said, regardless of whether the inhabitants are divine texts and the rules thereof. Jurists of that which he had taken from us, that all Muslims or Muslims mixed with did not attempt to justify the rule of we should give him the pledge to listen Dhimmi (Jews and Christians) or if all of non-Islamic laws or creeds which the and obey, in what we like and dislike, in the citizens are Dhimmi with only some modernists do. our hardship and ease, and that we Muslims in power. Dar al-Harb is any should not dispute the authority of its land where the Kufr law is dominant THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FISQ people unless we saw Kufr buwah (open even if everybody in the land is Muslim.” OF A RULER AND OPEN KUFR disbelief) upon which we had a proof [12] (burhan) from Allah.” There is a clear difference between fisq As can be seen, there is no dispute on (transgression/open sin) and ruling by To simplify the topic its useful to first the core understanding of what is meant Kufr just as there is between a fasiq and look at an individual and not a state – so by Dar al-Islam and the division of the a Kafir. The Messenger of Allah (saw) has if a Muslim commits zina (unlawful world into two fundamental spheres. informed us in numerous ahadith that fornication) he is a fasiq however if he Differences were discussed in relation to the leaders within an Islamic state believes zina is permissible then he political realities outside of this domain, including the Khalifah or the Wulah becomes a Kafir if done so with some extending this definition, and (governors) may make mistakes, sin and knowledge. Now let’s look at a state if others seeking to limit it. oppress citizens. This occurred in the the Khalifah or state officials under him www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 9 ABU ISMAEL AL-BEIRAWI

Monetary Fund.

The hypocrisy of these regimes is plain for everyone to see. Saudi’s overt alliance with America and Iran’s warm relations with the Kafir Alawite, Bashar al-Assad of Syria who has the blood of thousands on his hands are glaring examples of this.

Therefore it is clear that currently the whole world is Dar al-Kufr as no country matches the criterion for an Islamic state. Thus we see the laws of Allah (swt) abandoned as if they were worth nothing, the Sunnah of the Prophet (saw) betrayed and the example of the committed zina then that is fisq, this is When we apply this to modern states Sahaba ignored by the rulers of our different to if he legalised zina and made that claim to be Dar al-Islam, Saudi Arabia countries. It is as Imam Ahmad ibn it permissible under the law – it would and Iran we can see multiple examples Hanbal said, "The Fitna (mischief and then clearly be a law of Kufr and not just of not just issues of sin but clear Kufr tribulations) occurs when there is no a fisq. Every accepted scholar in history laws. They contradict Qat’i (definitive) Imam established over the affairs of the would agree that if the ruler permitted matters in Islam, accepting and ruling by people". zina that it would be Kufr buwah (open Kufr laws in many areas such as: disbelief). The matter which the scholars Contrary to wishes of the enemies of differ on is whether by doing so they • Being members of the United Islam and their modernist defenders it is automatically become Kuffar or not, Nations Organisation, every member of paramount for us to work to re-establish there is no disagreement that it would which has to agree with international Dar al-Islam, the Islamic Khilafah state. be a Kufr law. law set by human beings above the laws Let us take heed in the warning of our of Allah (swt). Instead of being ashamed Messenger (saw). There are two main views in this area: of this the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia first is the opinion of Ibn Jarir at-Tabari, proudly highlights this relationship on Al-Tabarani narrated in Al-Kabeer wal- Al-Shawkani, Ibn Taymiyyah and many of the website of it’s Permanent Mission to Bazaar, by the istinad (chains) of the men [15] the literalist (Zahiri) scholars who state the UN. of Sahih, from 'Awf bin Maalik from the that whoever rules by Kufr automatically Prophet (saw), who said: "My Ummah becomes a Kafir. The second view is that In fact it was among the first 50 nations will be divided into seventy-something of the companion of the Prophet (saw), to sign the UN charter in 1945 in San divisions, of them, the greatest Fitna Ibn Abbas as well as others such as Ibn Francisco. (trial) upon my Ummah are a people al-Qayyim and Ibn al-Jawzi who held that who measure matters with their opinion, it can be Kufr akbar (major Kufr – • Both Iran and Saudi Arabia cannot so they make the forbidden permissible apostasy) or Kufr asghar (minor Kufr) argue that they only say they accept and the permissible forbidden." [16] depending upon the situation. international law as some form of n deception as they are both modern non- Ibn al-Qayyim said: "The correct view is expansionist nation states which means REFERENCES [1] Ramadan, T, "Western Muslims and the Future of Islam", Oxford that ruling according to something other the abandonment of the definitive University Press, 2004, pg.69 than that which Allah has revealed obligation of Jihad (an obligation [2] Ali bin Mohammed al-Sharif Al-Jurjani, “Kitab al-Tarifat” (Book of definitions), 1969, Maktaba Lubnaan, Arabic Edition, pg. 181 includes both major and minor Kufr, stipulated in multiple verses of the [3] Sahih Muslim, Hadith no. 4294 [4] Musnad Ahmad 1:372 depending on the position of the judge. Quran). [5] Sahih Muslim 2:53 If he believes that it is obligatory to rule [6] Sahih Bukhari, Hadith no. 3713 [7] Abu Ubaid, Kitaab al-Amwaal, pg. 98 & Abu Yusuf, Kitaab al- according to what Allah has revealed in • Both have legalised Riba (usury) Kharaaj, pgs. 155-156 this case, but he turns away from that based banking. The Arab Monetary Fund, [8] Bada’ us-Sanaai’, Vol. 7 pg. 131 [9] al-Mu’atamad fil Usul ad-Deen, pg. 276 out of disobedience, whilst based in Abu Dhabi, is a huge Riba [10] Ibn Qayyim, Kitaab Ahkaam ahl al-Dhimmah, Vol. 1 pg. 366 [11] Al-Adaab al-Shari’ah, Vol. 1 pg. 190 acknowledging that he is deserving of institution that was established by an [12] Sayyid Qutb, In the Shade of the Qur’an, Vol. 2 pg. 874 punishment, then this is lesser Kufr. But agreement on 4/7/76 in Morocco. Saudi [13] "Nihayat al-Muhtaj" Vol. 8 pg. 82 [14] Madaarij as-Saaliheen, 1/336-337 if he believes that it is not obligatory and is the biggest share holder in it; it [15] http://www.saudimission.org [16] Also narrated by Al-Haithami in Majma' Al-Zawaa'id, Part 1/ the that the choice is his even though he is receives, as everyone else in the fund, Book of Knowledge in the section of Al-Taqleed wal-Qiyas certain that this is the ruling of Allah, riba on its shares. Iran and Saudi are also then this is major Kufr." [14] part of the riba based International

10 :: Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 www.khilafah.eu DR. NAZREEN NAWAZ

Women of Hizb ut-Tahrir Organise Historic International Women’s Conference (Tunisia), “The Khilafah: A Shining Model of Women’s Rights and Political Role”

s we touched down at Tunis ground-breaking event gathered hundreds Australia, France, Belgium, and the US in Carthage International Airport, of women from across the world including attendance. Journalists from across the ATunisia on the 6th March 2012, the leading female journalists, political activists, globe swarmed the venue with much excitement amongst the UK delegation of writers, politicians, university professors, media coverage both before the event and sisters attending the International Women’s lawyers, doctors, community leaders, and following it. The conference was live- Khilafah Conference hosted by the women representatives of organisations to streamed internationally and the of Hizb ut-Tahrir was clearly palpable. demonstrate how the Khilafah offers professionalism by which the whole event Standing at the birthplace of the Arab practical and sound solutions to the was organised led to one delegate uprisings, we could hardly believe that just multitude of political, economic, commenting that the party that organised over a year ago, an event such as this would educational, legal, and social problems this conference represented “a government be unthinkable under the Western-backed afflicting women across the region. It was in waiting”. secular tyrant ruler Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali the first time that so many Muslim women or previous secular dictatorships who from across the world had come together Speakers included female members and persecuted, imprisoned, and tortured to express their devoted support for supporters of Hizb ut-Tahrir from Tunisia, thousands of members of Hizb ut-Tahrir Islamic governance for the Muslim world Turkey, Libya, Egypt, Indonesia, Sudan, and other Muslims calling for Islamic rule. and unequivocal rejection of all man-made Yemen, Lebanon, and Europe – united in However, it was a clear reminder that when forms of governance. their message that the time for man-made this Ummah stands up for truth and justice systems is over; the time to establish the and have Allah (swt) as their support, The conference was hosted in “Le Palace”, a Khilafah is NOW! There was such history in anything is possible. beautiful five-star hotel. In itself, the choice that room – a sister from Libya whose of such a breath-taking location was a brother was executed by Gaddafi in the On the 10th March 2012, this truly historic significant matter for it reflected the 80’s for his membership of Hizb ut-Tahrir, a global conference was held, aimed at elevated, esteemed and unrivalled status sister from Turkey whose grandfather had presenting the Khilafah system based that Islam affords women and its been one of the earliest members of Hizb purely upon Islamic laws as a model of prescription of respect and prestige by ut-Tahrir in Turkey, a sister who had been governance that can truly secure the which they should be treated. It was a imprisoned under the Ben Ali regime for dignity and rights of women in the Muslim packed venue and an electric atmosphere, her membership of Hizb ut-Tahrir, women world and stand as a beacon for the with delegates from Tunisia, Egypt, Sudan, whose husbands had been incarcerated for liberation of women from oppression and Yemen, Libya, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, carrying the dawa for the Khilafah, women injustice globally. This unprecedented, Indonesia, Lebanon, Somalia, UK, Canada, from Yemen involved in their country’s www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 11 DR. NAZREEN NAWAZ uprisings to mention only a few. Women of political and economic systems based upon in that room at that time, there was an Hizb ut-Tahrir from Palestine, Jordan, and principles such as accountability and overwhelming sense that the establishment Syria delivered video messages to the transparency in governance, rule of law, an of the Khilafah and the Victory of Allah audience having been prevented entry to elected ruler, an independent media and (swt) is so near Insha Allah. the country by the Tunisian embassies in judiciary, the fair distribution of wealth, free their states. The idea of innocent Muslim education and healthcare, and the The final talk of the day presented Hizb ut- women wishing simply to join an Islamic obligation of the state to ensure that every Tahrir as a party that embodies the qualities conference on women’s rights being barred citizen has their basic needs met. It is this required to deliver real change to the entry into the country, illustrates clearly that will ensure that women’s political, Muslim world. It discussed how the that the real revolution in Tunisia is yet to economic, and educational rights enshrined organisation carries the detailed principles, materialise - and will only do so through within law have real meaning in the lives of policies and laws of how it will practically the Khilafah. ordinary women rather than being empty address problems affecting the region and a rhetoric in constitutions. clear vision of how the Khilafah will The conference highlighted how over the function with respect to its ruling, past 8 decades since the destruction of the As speakers described how the Khilafah economic, social, education, and judicial Khilafah, all models of governance based offered a new political vision for the systems as well as its foreign policy. This is upon laws from human beings, whether region’s women and how it was through all detailed comprehensively in its monarchies, theocracies, tribal systems, the implementation of Allah (swt)’s laws extensive literature and embodied in a draft secular democracies and dictatorships have and system alone that true liberation from constitution for the state that has been failed dismally to secure the dignity and oppression and man-made slavery could be published and is ready for implementation rights that all women deserve. Speakers and achieved, “Takbeers” erupted from across now. The extensive global political activism delegates unequivocally rejected the claim the audience followed by loud chants in of the women of Hizb ut-Tahrir was also that a better future for women could be support of the Khilafah that reverberated presented. The conference ended with a secured through adopting the tried, tested across the hall, including, “Al Ummah call to Muslim women to join and support and failed capitalist, secular, liberal ureedh, Khilafah Islamiyah”. Indeed, an the work of the party in establishing the democratic system, explaining how this Egyptian journalist who had attended to Khilafah, and fulfil with urgency this system had been sold as the saviour of cover the conference in the media, put important Islamic obligation – returning a women in the Muslim world and yet had down her pen and joined the takbeers. The noble system that will herald a new dawn failed to solve widespread poverty, illiteracy, passion, and overwhelming desire of of justice and dignity for the daughters of poor public services, violence, sexual women of the Muslim world to live under this Ummah. exploitation, and rape facing millions of Islamic rule was tangible, crushing the age- women within democratic, secular, liberal old lies peddled by Western governments For too long, many have spoken on behalf states in the West and East. The link and politicians that Muslim women view of the women of the Muslim world, between liberalization, secularization, Islam as their oppressor, that they reject sidelining the views of the masses, and gender equality and the progress of women Islamic governance, and that they seek ignoring the ever growing call for Islamic that is often promoted by Western liberation through the secular liberal governance amongst the region’s women. governments and institutions is a lie for democratic system. Such unsubstantiated Now with this historical conference, the there is nothing modern, progressive, or claims are no longer acceptable. Nor is it voices and opinions of the women of the liberating about the devaluing of women acceptable to use the template of Muslim world is clear. They have spoken, and destruction of the family unit caused dictatorships such as Saudi Arabia and Iran and spoken with a united voice - it is man- by these detrimental values. Furthermore, as examples of the injustices meted out made law and not Islam that has been the Muslim women in Tunisia, Turkey, Central against women under Islamic governance source of their subjugation; it is in Islam Asia, France, Belgium, and Germany have when it is clear that such states pursue a that they see their salvation from tasted at first hand the authoritarian nature charade of implementing Shariah while in oppression; and it is the Khilafah that they of secular rule that hounded them out of reality rule according to the whims of embrace as their guardian and look forward schools, universities, and employment Kings and despots. These lies deserve the to with longing eyes and desire with all simply for wearing the Islamic dress. There same fate as dictators – to be thrown into their hearts - for this is the only system that are no lessons in women’s rights the the dustbin of history. will bring real change in improving the Muslim world can ever learn from the lives of women. Allah (swt) commands: secular democratic system! Nor can such a Viewing such a moving scene of hundreds system ever herald a brighter future for the of Muslim women from across the Muslim “Whoever follows My Guidance shall women of the Muslim world! world raising their voices with such neither go astray, nor fall into distress passion for the Khilafah, it was so evident and misery. But whoever turns away from The second section of the conference that these were women whose desire for My Reminder (That is, neither believes in explained the unique Islamic laws and Islamic rule had been suppressed for so the Qur’an nor acts on its orders) verily, policies that ensure that women’s dignity is long by their dictatorial regimes – a desire for him is a life of hardship, and We shall preserved always, as well as protecting the though that had never been extinguished raise him up blind on the Day of harmony of the family unit and establishing from their hearts and now in light of the Resurrection.” healthy cooperation between men and developing political situations in the region [TMQ Ta-Ha: 123-124] women within society. Presentations also they were adamant to express zealously n highlighted the sound nature of the Islamic with a vigour that was captivating. Standing

12 :: Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 www.khilafah.eu MUHAMMAD ARIF The Illusion of Economic Growth

INTRODUCTION of goods and services per annum yet periods of economic growth followed by Economic growth is regarded as the 46 million US citizens live in poverty (15% severe periods of contraction. panacea for all societal ills. According to of the country’s population) and 50 million capitalism with economic growth comes people live without adequate health care. Thus while periods of economic happiness. This is seen as all the more Thus economic growth does not guarantee expansion do not guarantee livelihoods or pertinent as western economies enter their income equality let alone the eradication the removal of poverty, in times of third year of benign economic growth. of poverty. Why then a fixation with economic contraction business However has economic growth delivered economic growth in the west? bankruptcies rise and unemployment happiness? What is Islam’s view on increases. Heightened economic insecurity economic growth and how does Islam THE POLITICAL ECONOMY means businesses do not invest or expand seek to achieve a vibrant economy whilst Economic growth statistics or GDP figures and consequently wealth and job creation seeking the pleasure of Allah (SWT)? serve more as political tools than robust comes to a halt. metrics evaluating the economic wellbeing WHAT’S GDP? of the nation. Politicians parade economic Capitalists may well argue that periods of Economic growth is the rate of change in a growth trends and forecasts to serve their growth still outnumber periods of decline. country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) political agenda while national statistical In fact before the start of the current or the total value of the goods and services agencies manipulate, adjust and revise downturn in 2008 the UK is reported to produced from one year to the next. A highly variable estimates to an have experienced 16 years of growth in growing economy with increasing unquantifiable one decimal place to which GDP expanded by 50%. In contrast production of goods and services is said to confound a statistically untrained public in the downturn of 2008-2009 GDP fell by be a healthy economy. This is because, for and to placate their political masters. 7% over 6 quarters. capitalists, peoples wants are unlimited so Also, economic growth provides a false with ever increasing production more sense of wellbeing without necessarily That growth was debt fuelled, however, the people are more able to access goods and removing poverty, providing livelihoods or burden of which will be paid by many services to satisfy those wants and increasing productivity. Thus much of the generations. Also many millions did not therefore to be happy. economic growth in the west in the last 3 share in the so-called boom years except decades has been illusionary with: for having to pay higher prices for housing, That’s the theory. In reality, in spite of long goods and services. Now 2.7 million periods of economic growth during the • Property booms in the 80s and 90s people are unemployed in the UK and an last decade income inequality actually rose • The financial bull market in the 1990s additional 1m at least are underemployed in the US and Europe. Not only did the • Consumer booms in the 80s, 90s and and working only part-time or casually, but divide between the richest and the poorest 2000s would like to work full time. Across the in western society widen to new levels • Asset bubbles like the dot.com craze western world tens of millions are (something which is well documented) but • Colossal debt expansion since 1990s unemployed. Moreover, the heavy costs of the living standards of the middle class - bailouts with trillions going in to the those on average incomes - fell. Between It is thus unsurprising that each of these defunct financial system and the legacy of 2000 and 2010 the US economy grew by periods of strong (but largely illusory) debt this leaves for future generations also over 16% in real terms yet the US Census economic growth was followed by major needs to be considered when comparing Bureau reported average household economic recessions in the early 1980s the economic costs and benefits of the incomes fell by 7% after adjusting for and 1990s and the latest in 2008 from capitalist model of growth. inflation over the same 10 year period (1). which the western world is still to recover. The US economy is the largest in the The chart of UK economic growth However, economic growth or recession is world, generating over $14 trillion worth exemplifies this trend of quite volatile a false choice. Fundamentally the capitalist www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 13 MUHAMMAD ARIF

implemented via the Islamic courts. Thus lowers prices and increases affordability for example wives and children have a right to, at least, food, clothing and shelter 6. Taxes are on wealth so the poor don’t and it is the responsibility of the pay husband/father to provide these. A failure to do so allows wives to seek redress in 7. Money supply is based on the volume the courts from the property of the father. of gold and silver which keeps a lid on prices and creates a stable economic This chain of responsibility and environment for business investment accountability stretches across Islamic society to parents, grandparents, sons and 8. There is active redistribution of income model of growth is inherently unstable as grandsons. Only when individuals are not via paying Zakat (wealth tax) so the poor with ‘growth’ followed by decline. It does able to be supported by their wider and needy are lifted out of poverty not provide economic stability, end household does the state step in to secure poverty, or even remove economic individual basic needs. 9. There is active circulation of money inequality. This is the criterion on which to through the prohibition of hoarding gold evaluate the capitalist growth model This ensures that all citizens of the Islamic and silver, no interest and a wealth tax of against alternatives namely Islam. state have at least their basic needs catered 2.5% which encourages equity finance for, after which they have the capacity and ISLAM AND ECONOMIC GROWTH ability to engage in acquiring their lawful 10.The state is prohibited from fixing Islam recognises human needs and wants, luxuries. prices of goods and services or wages and their requirement for satisfaction. allowing prices and wages to fall as well as In Islam property is not theft as in rise and thereby stimulating the economy Needs such as food, clothing and shelter communism. At the same time property is even when overall demand is low. are very different from “wants” i.e. not the sole meaning of life as under “luxuries”, because without the former a capitalism. Property is a means to an end CONCLUSION person will not survive. Thus in contrast to which is seeking the pleasure of Allah In summary, the capitalist drive for growth the capitalist’s fixation with economic (SWT). All economic benefits are allowed creates an inherently unstable economic growth to satisfy human collective wants to be sought unless Shariah Law forbids environment. Severe busts follow debt [which is in fact impossible] Islam’s them like gambling and interest. fuelled booms. The debt burden rises, economic policy actively works to ensure All citizens of the Islamic state have the millions remain in poverty while wealth households do not go without food, right to engage in all lawful commercial and income inequalities grow. The wealthy clothing and shelter. This is according to a activity without interference from the state few get richer and fewer after each hadith reported in Tirmidhi: "The Son of in setting prices and wages – which is downturn while the many poor get poorer Adam has no better right than that he expressly forbidden. The state’s role is to and increase in number. In contrast, in would have a house wherein he may live, a ensure property rights and guarantee the Islam the imperative is to remove poverty piece of clothing whereby he may hide his rule of law based on Shariah Law. and ensure the circulation of wealth which nakedness and a piece of bread and some enables all citizens to engage in all lawful water." [Tirmidhi] Derived from The Shariah below are ten business activity. There are no taxes on points that stimulate the economy creating income so work is incentivised and With respect to households want for a vibrant business environment which is in spending is boosted creating demand for a luxuries this is left to individuals to satisfy. accordance with seeking the pleasure of variety of lawful goods and services Allah (SWT): providing jobs and livelihoods. Meanwhile The focus of Islam’s economic policy of the gold and silver standard ensures price fulfilling human needs ensures that at least 1. Borrowing is allowed and interest free stability encouraging business investment poverty is eliminated in society and avoids which does not increase the debt burden and boosting jobs. The role of the state is a scenario in the capitalist growth model clearly defined with prohibitions on price where millions do not adequately have the 2. Businesses invest based on equity and wage fixing which promotes basics of food, clothing and shelter in spite finance that encourages risk sharing and entrepreneurship. of the wealth in society. rewards profits n

This does not mean that the Islamic 3. Taxation is designated and defined so Footnote (Khilafah) state hands out food, clothing the government cannot increase and create http://money.cnn.com/2011/09/21/news/economy/middle_class_incom and shelter to all households or that all new taxes e/index.htm industries that provide these basic needs are state owned. 4. There are no income taxes so work is ISLAM’S ECONOMIC MODEL incentivised and disposal income is higher The economic model in Islam is integrated boosting spending with individual and household Islamic rights and responsibilities which are 5. There are no expenditure taxes which

14 :: Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 www.khilafah.eu HONAIN SIDDIQUI The reality of an Israeli attack on Iran

DIPLOMATIC STANDOFF The recent AIPAC 2012 conference, accompanied by Netanyahu’s trip to Washington, has simply compounded what has been an increasing rise in tensions between the United States, the EU and the Iranian regime. IAEA reports aside, it is evident that Israel is now seeking the green light from the US to mount a unilateral strike against Iran. The fact is however that the US favours the sanctions game, and is in reality looking to get Netanyahu to commit to military action with US approval. To that effect Obama and Leon Panetta (US Secretary of Defence) were both forced to justify their positions in front of AIPAC. Obama stated; “Iran’s leaders should understand that I do not have a policy of containment…. I will not hesitate to use force when it is necessary to defend the United States and its interests”. Panetta in similar vein cited examples of US Warships passing through the straits of Hormuz, in an attempt to he clearly unavoidable media hype Whilst addressing the 2012 AIPAC indulge the pro-Israeli crowd as to the surrounding a possible Israeli strike conference in March, Netanyahu was depth of the administration’s political Tat Iran’s nuclear facilities has clearly alluding to the possibility that a devotion to Israel. become a key defining point around strike against Iran’s nuclear capability was regional relations in the Middle East. For now on the political horizon, without Nonetheless, the Israelis want to act the Muslims, this makes for very sad indulging the applauding pro-Israeli unilaterally as Netanyahu stated; “We have reading as we could well see the audience in the details of military tactics waited for diplomacy to work, we have possibility of yet another Muslim country familiar to his war cabinet. However, for waited for sanctions to work, none of us attacked by the US and her surrogates, in the astute political observer who is able to can afford to wait much longer…. Israel their attempts to wipe out any semblance distinguish between rhetoric and reality, must always have the ability to defend of regional opposition. However, this does fundamental questions arise as to how itself by itself”. In making false beg the question as to whether such an likely such an attack would be, what any comparisons as to how the current attack is an inevitability. such attack will involve, and what are the standoff with Iran is like the refusal of the political consequences of a display of arms US government to bomb Auschwitz in To answer, the words of Benyamin capability on the scale expected, which at 1944, Netanyahu clearly highlighted that Netanyahu point to a subtle yes : “I am not the present time are being unilaterally there is a disconnect between the US and going to talk to you about what Israel will considered. Israel in handling Iran. The EU’s latest do or not do, I never talk about that”. acceptance of negotiations from the www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 15 HONAIN SIDDIQUI

the attacks in Iraq and Syria. cities of Natanz, near Tehran and Fordo, The fact is that the Iranian Nuclear near Qom. However, reality is that facilities Facilities are multiple and (in the case of at Natanz are underground and the plant at the facilities in Nantanz and Fordo) Fordo is buried deeply into the side of a underground or buried. These alone are mountain. Other possible targets would be more than just the single targets in Syria the heavy-water production plant and and Iraq, which were both easier to target. heavy-water reactor under construction at Furthermore, the attacks on Syria and Iraq Arak and the uranium conversion plant at came without prior warning, and the Isfahan. With the enrichment facilities logistical nature of such an operation was being definite targets and being buried, not as complex. Despite the Israeli Air- this would entail the use of bunker buster force having purchased 125 advanced F-15I bombs by the Israelis, which have potential and F-16I warplanes, equipped with Israeli for enormous collateral damage and loss of Iranians is Europe’s attempt to plug the avionics and additional fuel tanks, which Muslim life, especially given the fact that diplomatic gap and essentially aims to are tactical aircraft designed precisely for they would be fighting in heavily guarded assert EU leadership on the issue. The offer such a mission, the desired targets are airspace and there is a chance of radiation of the so called P5+1 talks come as the approximately 900-1300 miles from Israel. leakage given the nature of the targets. European Oil Embargo in July is set to deprive the Iranians of 25% of government revenue. Whilst the Iranian government has ...for Israel to attack the multiple targets it wishes to in Iran, it maintained it will merely find other export will require either the action or inaction of the surrounding markets, it remains to be seen as to how effective the sanctions will prove to be in states. undermining the Iranian economy. In the meantime we are likely to see the proxy What becomes increasingly clear from the Iran’s capabilities while not on par with, war continue, between assassinations, above, is that for Israel to attack the present a problem to the Israelis, any air to sanctions and cyber-attacks. However, it multiple targets it wishes to in Iran, it will air combat with Iran’s Russian-supplied should be noted, at this point a drift to require either the action or inaction of the MiG-29 and small number of US F-14 unilateral military action, in the event of surrounding states. In particular, the Tomcat fighters, add difficulties with the P5+1 negotiations failing, seems London times published an article in 2011 fuelling and potential targeting. increasingly likely. detailing how Saudi Arabia would allow its Furthermore, surface to air missile airspace to be used for such an attack, capability is not something that the Israelis MILITARY DIMENSION OF ISRAELI whilst this claim has since been refuted by have time to destroy, as the mission is a ATTACK Saudi diplomats, such a violation of the specific seek and destroy type. Thus Israelis Whilst a recent poll conducted by The Shariah rules is not alien to the Saudi or for will be relying on the electronic element University of Maryland, showed that thirty- that matter the Jordanian or Turkish of radar blinding and false picture four percent of Israelis oppose a strike no regimes way of political thinking. generation. matter what and 42 percent would back a strike only if it had at least the support of Furthermore, Israel crossed Turkish The main weapon in Israel's arsenal is the the United States, it seems Netanyahu is airspace to attack the suspected Syrian US-supplied GBU-28laser-guided weapon determined to unilaterally act. In the event Nuclear facility in 2007. Saudi Arabia and with penetrating capabilities (penetration of an Israeli strike against Iran, it is worth Jordan in the past have justified their of up to 6m of concrete detonation of the considering the possibilities pertaining to stances over Iran with sectarian overtones warhead) , these would be carried by such a strike. Such an attack is not without and have painted a picture of a ‘Shia Israeli F-15I aircraft which would only be precedence. In June 1981, Israeli jets Crescent’ developing in the Middle East, it able to carry one per aircraft, meaning this bombed the Osirak reactor near Baghdad. would not surprise many to see them turn would be an enormous aerial operation Furthermore, in September 2007, Israeli a blind eye to the suffering of the Ummah given the multiple targets. planes hit a facility in Syria that Israel and in Iran, as they have done in Syria. the US believed was a nuclear reactor The fact is that, even with the most under construction. However, a potential The Israeli operation is highly likely to accurate of intelligence sharing between strike against Iran would be dissimilar to target uranium enrichment sites at the the US and Israel, the Israeli attack may

16 :: Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 www.khilafah.eu HONAIN SIDDIQUI well resort to destroying entrance tunnels sustainable given the disparity between US and the power cabling structure as all of and Iranian naval strength, would drive up these structures have high energy global prices of oil in the short term, but requirements. This being accomplished will would not be considered by many as merely cause a delay to Iran’s nuclear retaliation, especially not by those inside ambitions and by no means cripple or Iran. destroy it. Politically the Israelis run a huge risk by not doing enough damage to Iran’s The use of the Iranian ballistic missiles, facilities and thus the shift in political whilst not out of the realm of possibility, is momentum will go to Tehran, this difficult to envisage as only a very small especially in the context of American number of Iranian missiles could actually pressure on the Israeli government to reach Israel. The Sajjil-2 could reach Israel avoid unilateral military action. but is not yet operational and Iran only has six known launchers for Ghadr-1. The The Israeli military capability to deal a enlisting of Hezbollah on the Israeli crippling blow to Iran’s Nuclear capability Northern Border is a more probable will be drastically reduced without access scenario as Hezbollah’s SCUD-D missiles to the US war machine, which has far can target the whole of Israel, and the greater firepower at its command. The shorter range Fajr and Zelzal missiles can effectiveness of such a strike has been also target key stations inside Israel. questioned by both American and Israeli Pursuance of this course of action, would officials, US Joint Chiefs of staff, General open a more regional dimension to this Martin Dempsey claimed such a strike, conflict, in that Israel would almost there are differences between Sunnis and "would be destabilising and would not certainly pursue targets into Lebanon if Shias, some of which are particularly achieve their long-term objectives". any significant threat or damage was emotive and fiercely debated, it should be targeted at Israel by Hezbollah. It is remembered that the bond of brotherhood Furthermore Meir Dagan (former head of arguable that for this reason, Hamas has between one Muslim to another is the Israeli spy agency, Mossad) claimed stated it has no intention to involve itself something that Allah (swt) mandates in the that the attack would lead to a regional in any such conflict. Quran: “And the believers, men and war and that the Israeli government should women, are protecting friends one of focus on trying to change the regime in REGIONAL DIVIDE another; they enjoin the right and forbid Tehran, by backing groups opposed to the Whilst Hezbollah would add a militarised the wrong.” [Quran TMQ 9:71] status quo of Iranian governance and regional dimension to this conflict, there political persuasion. What seems to be would certainly be a divide across the Furthermore, Our beloved Messenger preponderant is that an Israeli strike will entire Middle East on the issue. Iran’s only (SAW) said: “A Muslim is the brother of project Israeli military strength, which has reliable ally Syria, is not in a position to another Muslim. He does not oppress him, still not recovered since 2006, and at best support any militarised moves against nor does he leave him at the mercy of slow the Iranian nuclear drive. Israel in light of Assad’s deployment of the others”. [Sahih Muslim]. Syrian Army against the Muslims in Syria. POTENTIAL IRANIAN RESPONSE Furthermore, Iraq whilst certainly As the Prophet’s (saw) hadith teaches us it If any such attack did take place the possessing some pro-Iranian leanings in its is not for any Muslim to apathetically leave Iranians would have multiple options open own government, is again in no position to our brothers and sisters in Iran at the to them in terms of response aid the Iranians. Turkey’s ‘zero conflict’ mercy of Western backed Israeli aggression. considerations. Since Iran has not directly policy will prevent any intervention and as attacked Israel and the fact the UN is known the GCC, Jordan, Saudi Arabia are Rather it is our duty to stand with our Security Council would never pass a either pro EU or US. Leaving only Egypt, Ummah when they being oppressed, and resolution allowing an Israeli pre-emptive which is unlikely to assist Iran militarily. make the realisation that the absence of strike, Israel would be in clear violation of This being said we can assume that there the Islamic ruling system in the form of international law. However, as many are may well be the employment of gesture the Khilafah, breeds the chaos of foreign aware international law has never really politics in the form of diplomatic aggression, sectarianism and the sale of applied in the case of the US or her allies, condemnation of Israel by some regional Muslim flesh and blood. n in a sense making it a redundant figment actors. of imagination serving only the super power states. This is especially true in the A view from the Kitab and Sunnah case of Israel, and as such the Iranians Predictably even before any such attack would be unlikely to respond purely even takes place on Iran, there are those diplomatically to such an attack, although that would have us distance ourselves from they would have some diplomatic impetus our brothers and sisters in Iran, on the behind them if they wished to do so. The basis of an age old sectarian divide closing of the Straits of Hormuz, whilst not between Sunni and Shia. Whilst true that www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 17 MUJIBUL ISLAM Replace Sheikh Hasina's bankrupt regime with the Islamic Khilafah State Bangladesh Army is not detached from the people, they have fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts etc. amongst the civilians. When their families get hurt they are hurt. When the nation bleeds, they bleed along with it.

The Bangladesh Army is the only institution in the country, which is still highly regarded, and is considered to have some remnant of feeling and commitment left for the security of the nation and the people. It is also an institution, which has a strong feeling for Islam, as it draws its motivation for training and fighting from the ayaat of the Qur’an and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It is an institution, which takes the likes of Ali (RA), Umar (RA) and Khalid Bin Walid (RA) as its role model.

Sheikh Hasina’s government, after taking control over the national politics, sees the army as the biggest obstacle to her, not just heikh Hasina’s government and the her government assumed power, it has never for returning to power for the next term, but Bangladesh Army have claimed that they failed to demonstrate its subservient even in order to continue with this term in Shave foiled a coup attempt to topple her relationship to India and the US, and have not the government. She knows that if the army democratically elected government (19th Jan left a single stone unturned to pursue is kept intact then she will not be able to 2012). policies and agreements that are against the continue with her oppressive rule and interests of state, the people of Bangladesh pursue her anti-state goals to turn Bangladesh It is not possible to comment on whether and against Islam; whether those policies and into a slave nation to India and the US. this is true or not as Brig. Gen. Masud Razzak, agreements are to do with the economy, the Army Spokesman, in his press conference, culture, energy, judiciary, or security. Therefore, the government turns to the which is the first of its kind, clearly spoke Bangladesh Army to remove any remnant of like an Awami League party man, who was Since, the politics of Bangladesh are already pro-Islamic and pro-state sentiments, replace unable to clarify whether it was a coup polluted, and both ruling party and the it with subservient culture and agents of attempt, a coup plan or just them being opposition party are complicit, the people do RAW and the CIA, so that it is not only silent sensitive to the fact that there are some men not have any avenues or means to voice their over anti-state practices but that it can be who are not towing their party line. But one opinion or demonstrate their resentments actively used as a tool by the US and India to thing is certain, that Sheikh Hasina’s Awami without risking being killed, abducted, pursue their regional geopolitical objectives. League government is pursuing a dangerous detained without trial, or facing fabricated It should be remembered that this would not plan to subjugate the Bangladesh Army to US false accusations and labelling. be the first time for Sheikh Hasina’s and Indian interests; and that this reported This, coupled with the dire economic government to turn its evil eye to the Army. coup attempt will be used as a trump card to condition and law & order situation adds to The BDR carnage stands as a living example realise the goal, just as the US has used the the misery of the people, who are being of what she is capable of. 9/11 incident to carry out its war on Islam kicked by Sheikh Hasina’s government and around the Muslim world. then banned from screaming. Sheikh Hasina's government was put in Sheikh Hasina’s government claims to have The people generally feel helpless as Hasina’s power after a 2 year foreign controlled been democratically elected. Yet ever since government rules with an iron fist. The caretaker government. The foreign forces,

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BDR Massacre”. It was her first declaration of war against the army and the people of Bangladesh, to say that anyone who stands before her would not be tolerated. The whole structure and line of command of BDR was destroyed as a result of the massacre, leaving them leaderless, without a structure, and vulnerable to security threats from India. The BDR (Bangladesh Rifles), who protect the border against India’s continuous killing, smuggling and anti-state activities are virtually destroyed, and have been replaced with a new force, with the title of Bangladesh Border Guard. namely US and India, who engineered the been prosecuted for any of these killings, in election to bring her to power was on the spite of evidence in many cases that makes it Now, the Indian BSF (Border Security Force) basis of a guarantee that Sheikh Hasina would clear the killings were in cold blood against does not have any obstacle on the border to serve their interests and not be an obstacle to unarmed and defenceless local residents”. carrying out killings. The world has witnessed implementing their regional plan. This was the photo of a 15 year old girl, Faluni who confirmed by Wikileaks reports and also, A single killing along the US-Mexican border was shot 4 times and who remained dead, Sheikh Hasina herself, when in parliament makes headlines. However, the killing of a hanging for hours on the barbwire. Also, the she categorically stated that the reasons why large numbers of villagers by Indian forces recent video, which has been viewed many her Awami League party was unable to get has been almost entirely ignored. Not just by times on YouTube, where a Bangladesh cattle into power during the last term was simply the media at large, but also, by the trader by the name of Habibur Rahman was because they were not ready to compromise government of Bangladesh. taken by the BSF, as he refused to give them with the foreign forces. So, it can be In September 2011 Sheikh Hasina’s Awami his possession of TK1000 (10 GBP) and a understood that in this term she was ready League Government introduced a new mobile phone. He was stripped naked and for compromise. censorship law to censor contents of private was kicked and beaten for over 5 hours by a radio and TV programmes. It effectively bans large group of BSF thugs in the open. The Furthermore, The Assam Tribune reported on any criticism of the government and its irony was the response to this incident from 11th September 2011: “The Government of institutions. Therefore, even the media are Ashraful Islam, the LGRD (Local Government India has decided to extend as much help as forced to tow the government’s line and are and Rural Development) Minister of Sheikh banned from reporting oppressive practices Therefore, it should be vividly clear that the so-called of the government. The Awami League government’s other “democratically elected government” of Sheikh Hasina anti-state, anti-people and anti-Islamic is nothing but a “democratically elected dictatorship”, activities include: possible to Bangladesh to strengthen the Remaining silent over the creation of Hasina’s government, who is also the General hands of the Sheikh Hasina led Awami League Tipaimukh Dam, which will turn many Secretary of the Awami League. He stated Government in the interest of having a rivers in Bangladesh, which are vital to this categorically that border killing, smuggling, friendly neighbour as the present agricultural society, into dry land. and the other activities that go on are Government in the neighbouring country nothing new - it happens now as it happened already extended help to India in dealing Giving open access to the US Navy to the in the past - and the Awami League with insurgency”. Bay of Bengal’s waters and to the Government has far bigger things to worry Bangladesh navy to carryout join exercises about than these incidents on the border “Highly placed official sources in New Delhi in the name of “operation tiger shark”. This with India. Effectively saying, the lives of its told The Assam Tribune that though the not only creates security risks, but also, citizens are not a big issue for the Awami fundamentalist groups are still active in enables the US Navy to recruit agents League government. Bangladesh, they are not allowed a free run as within the Bangladesh navy and take was the case in the past. The effort on the supremacy over them. Since 2009, over 207 reported killings have part of India is to extend help to Bangladesh been carried out in the border. This has been so that the present regime stays in power, Giving transit rights to India, whereby, reported in many daily journals and sources added.” even during the test case, they left newspapers such as “Daily Amar Desh” in Bangladesh trucks, buses, and cars stranded Bangladesh and the English “The Guardian”. Less than two months into this term of for hours to enable Indian goods to pass Brad Adams stated in The Guardian that government, Sheikh Hasina’s regime bloodied through without receiving any significant “India’s Border Security Force (BSF), has their hand by colluding with India on 25th of tolls or tariffs. carried out a shoot-to-kill policy – even on February 2009 to carry out the cold-blooded unarmed local villagers”. He goes on further murder of over 59 senior army officials along Agreeing to build a heavy machinery to say “Over the past 10 years Indian security with their family members, including the DG port at Ashuganj, which will give India forces have killed almost 1,000 people, of BDR, who is at the rank of Major General. access through the roads and waterways of mostly Bangladeshis, running the border area This is marked in the history as the “Pilkhana Bangladesh to Chittagong port, but will into a south Asian killing field. No one has www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 19 MUJIBUL ISLAM

League lawmakers and its student wing members. Awami League MP Sheikh Afil Uddin, Nurunnabi Chowdhury Shaon, Awami League MP of Dhaka-15 constituency Elias Uddin Mollah; Awami League activists Musa Mahmud, Asad and Kemal etc. are some of the few amongst many who have openly carried out killing, torture and even the beating of a Police Officer in-charge. All are allowed to move freely. wipe out many businesses, large and small Continuous corruption of the Ministers that include the BNP and its alliance, AL and as well as rendering many hundreds of including that of the Roads and Highway its alliance, who have shared power in the thousands unemployed. minister who has been highlighted even by country for decades. the World Bank. Hizb-ut-Tahrir consists of honest people, who Completely turning a blind eye to the fear none but Allah, and who have real ever-increasing price hikes of essentials, Makes constitutional amendments to solutions to the problems of Bangladesh; who which has not just gone against their wipe out any Islamic values from the are willing to sacrifice their lives and election promises, but at times have proven society and gives full immunity to Sheikh property in this cause to bring real change to that it is the factions of scrupulous Awami Hasina and her family; making them above Bangladesh. They demonstrate real vision, League who are benefiting from this misery the law. commitment and sincerity unlike the current of the common people. secular politicians who are willing to sell Therefore, it should be vividly clear that the themselves for pennies. Banning Islamic dress codes from so-called “democratically elected government” educational institutions. of Sheikh Hasina is nothing but a Unable to face the party intellectually, the “democratically elected dictatorship”, which Awami League has adopted the politics of Pursuing – as a terrorising policy - is towing the same path as that blazed by fascism – with the blessing of America and anyone who has a beard or wears jilbab or Mubarak of Egypt, Gaddafi of Libya, Ben Ali of India – in a campaign to attack Hizb ut-Tahrir carries any Islamic books. The Awami Tunisia and Bashar Al Assad of Syria. Sheikh – fabricating allegations, denying people basic Leagues student faction, the Jubo League Hasina’s government should not be allowed rights and using thugs to intimidate and and Chatro League have openly torn down to play with the lives of the 150 million abuse any opponents. the jilbab of Muslim girls in Eden College, innocent people of Bangladesh. Her Dhaka. government should not be allowed to destroy These actions of the Awami League show such an honourable institution as that of their desperation and bankruptcy. Pursuing a policy similar to that of Bangladesh Army, and subjugate them to the Hizb ut-Tahrir has a draft constitution Kemal Ataturk of Turkey, whereby any Army US and India. Her government should not be addressing all the political and economic officials, who have a beard, who pray, or allowed to enable the foreign forces to steal problems facing the country and calls upon have any Islamic practices, such as the resources of the country and deprive the the educated and influential people within avoiding drinking alcohol, are reported and people of its benefits. In all sense of society in Bangladesh to reject the decades recorded. definition Sheikh Hasina’s government old politics of corruption and incompetence qualifies as the enemy of the state, people and support its work. Creating a deteriorating law and order and Islam, therefore it should be removed situation where a father and son are both immediately. The lessons from the Middle East are that killed, just for 10 lakh Taka (10,000 GBP); decades of silence simply allow the people (including members of the army) The accusations against Hizb ut-Tahrir come oppression, brutality, corruption and decline are abducted, kidnapped, detained without because this party has stood against the to worsen. The sincere people at every level trial; arrested through false allegations and actions of Sheikh Hasina’s government – of society must do, all they can to work to denied access to justice and brutally exposing their crimes, their betrayal of the remove this regime and support Hizb ut- tortured in secret torture cells. country & Islam, and their collusion with Tahrir’s efforts to establish the Khilafah State India and the US. in Bangladesh. Cancelling over 600 cases against many Hizb ut-Tahrir has worked in Bangladesh for Awami League party members, including many years, never resorting to violence as it We are reminded and motivated by the Ministers and MPs, in a single cabinet contradicts the Islamic method for change, Hadith of our beloved Prophet (SAW) sitting; giving them free reign to continue and remaining on a steadfast political "The best Jihad is the word of truth to an with their terrorising and corrupt activities programme; winning, amongst others, unjust ruler" and the command of our Lord doctors, teachers, lawyers, university Allah (SWT): "And let there arise from Secretly paving the way to allow India professors, businessmen, and politicians - amongst you a group, inviting to all that is to exploit national natural resources such who are well respected in society and known good (ie Islam), enjoying the good (ma'ruf) as gas and coal, by building transmission for their honesty and integrity. and forbidding the evil (munkar); and lines in the name of power trade. those are the ones whom are successful” Carrying out a campaign of continuous They have become the biggest challenge and [TMQ Al-Imran 104] ‘Terror’ carried out by both the Awami obstacle for the corrupt incompetent parties n

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with secularism is something the West can work with, and would like to see Deciphering the “Turkish across the Muslim lands. Interestingly within the Muslim world the only model Turkey is known for is the Model” of Government Caliphate which turned the Ottomans – a band of fighters – into the world’s superpower. However Western discourse is mixed, with praise and concern of an apparent Islamic revival termed the Turkish model. US officials, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, view Turkey as a ‘model’ and an ‘example’ for the states in the Middle East and North Africa. President Obama has made similar statements, in an Italian newspaper he said “The fact that it [Turkey] is a democracy and a country that is mostly Islamic makes it a critically important model for other Muslim countries of the region”. The New York Times recently said: “More than any other figure, the new breed’s standard-bearer is Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Pledging that conservative Islam is compatible with individual liberties, Erdogan holds the rise of his culturally conservative but economically liberal political party as a beacon for a new Middle East.”

This article will analyse “The Turkish Model” and assess its Islamic credentials and whether it represents a model for the wider Muslim world.

THE JUSTICE AND DEVELOPMENT PARTY (AKP) he Arab spring has brought to an longer about the Muslim world wanting end the post WW1 dictatorial change but what kind of change it is The rise of the Turkish model of Tarchitecture that long dominated seeking. Questions like: What does the governance has been parallel to the rise the Arab landscape. The regimes of region want to live by? Does the region of the AKP and its leader Recep Tayyip tyranny and dictatorship were established want Western Democracy and other Erdoğan. The AKP led by Erdogan came to in the Middle East long before the likes of Western values? As well as the role of the power in 2002, after the Ecevit Mubarak and Ben Ali came to power. For West. government lost credibility in its handling most of the last hundred years the West of the Turkish economic crisis in 2001 has carefully engineered a political status The Arab Spring has seen many marches which led to a deep recession. This quo established upon their own interests. under the banner of Islam and many in resulted in early elections and through With the failing of old colonial policies of the West are preparing themselves for the the use of Islamic slogans the AKP party direct intervention the likes of the British prospect of the Middle East achieving won a massive majority. Empire shifted their attention to using decisive power. proxy rulers and making contacts with Prior to the establishment of the AKP elites in the region. In amongst the search for answers the both Erdogan and Abdullah Gul were Turkish model of governance has gained members of the Refah party. When the The uprisings across the Muslim world much publicity and notoriety. This model Refah – True Path coalition was have led to old notions of political apathy of governance has been praised by many overthrown in 1997 they both left the and lack of political ambition being a Western politician and secularist who Refah party and formed their own party proven baseless. The questions are no believe the fusion of some Islamic rules the Justice and Development Party in www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 21 ADNAN KHAN

2001. Erdogan is from a similar line of Council comprises the Chief of Staff, the Middle East Turkey continues in its thinking as Turgat Özal, Prime Minister of select members of the Council of attempts to bring the various parties Turkey between 1983-1989. Özal had Ministers and the President of the together with Israel on for a two state some clear Islamic sentiments and Republic – who is also the Commander- solution. Turkey played a central role in followed the Naqshbandi order in the in-chief. Like other National Security ensuring the US constructed architecture early 1990’s. Councils it develops national security came together in Iraq through a policy of policy. maintaining contact with all groups in Erdoğan was the Mayor of Istanbul from Iraq. Many of the Shi’ah and Sunni 1994. He was banned from office and The economy and foreign policy have factions traveled to Turkey in order to sentenced to a prison term for reciting been the most salient features of the AKP. form the Iraqi government. The Semi- the text “The mosques are our barracks, autonomous Northern Iraq has seen over the domes our helmets, the minarets our Since Erdogan rose to power he aligned $5 billion in investment from Turkey. bayonets and the faithful our soldiers….” himself with the business elite and has Turkish companies are the top investors from a poem during a public address in turned Turkey into an export driven in hotels, real estate, industry and energy the province of Siirt on 12 December economy. Erdoğan travelled to China, in northern Iraq. As one analyst put it: 1997. After six months in prison, Erdoğan Brazil, India, Russia and the African “Turkey has long facilitated the political established the Justice and Development continent with plane loads of stability in Iraq and hereafter Ankara Party (AK Party) on August 14 2001. businessmen and women in order to would play a more critical role in Iraq’s promote Turkish business interests. political process because Ankara’s role in On assuming power Erdogan led Turkey has a foreign policy premised on Iraqi politics balances the impact of Iran numerous government instituted reforms. ‘zero’ problems with neighbors which is on Iraq”. The most important included: a big departure for a country that had long endured conflict on its restive Turkey has also been attempting to Cementing ties with the US through the borders – with Syria, Georgia, Armenia, extend its role in the Caucuses where it Shared Vision Document signed between Iran, and Iraq and which had run a mostly has long competed with Russia. the Turkish and American government. statist, closed economy until the 1980s. Abdulla Gul and Condoleezza Rice Turkey under Erdogan has maintained confirmed: “The strategic vision Turkey began liberalising its economy close economic and military ties with document confirms Turkish-US consensus and aggressively pushing trade with Israel. Turkey was the first Muslim to translate our shared vision into Central Asia and the Middle East under country to recognize Israel in March common efforts through effective Erdoğan. 1949. Cooperation includes Turkey being cooperation and structured dialogue.” Cooperation included: Supporting Islam has played virtually no role in Turkey’s foreign policy. international efforts towards a permanent The most obvious example of this is Erdogan’s continuation of settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict, Turkish relations with Israel which is something Islam including international efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the basis expressly prohibits. of a two-state solution. Supporting diplomatic efforts on Iran’s nuclear Israel’s largest trade partner in the region program, including the P5+1 initiative Europe remains the biggest market for and it’s second-biggest in the world, contributing to stability, democracy and Turkish products, accounting for 50% of behind only the US. In the first three prosperity in the Black Sea region, the the country’s exports. Most go to months of 2011, Turkey exported Caucasus, Central Asia and Afghanistan. Germany, France, and Eastern Europe, products worth $579.3 million to Israel Enhancing energy security through where the Turks are among the leading and imported goods worth $397.3 diversification of routes and sources, producers of cars, televisions and home million. While Turkey purchases high-tech including from the Caspian basin. appliances. Erdoğan’s export-focused defence industry equipment from Israel, Reforms also included expanding the approach has included billions of dollars amongst the goods they export are government’s penetration of the National of business for construction companies military uniforms and footwear for the Security Council. In the name of building universities, malls and hotels for Israeli army. Whilst military ties have democratisation the ruling justice and the governments of the Middle East. soured of late the underlying relationship development party (AKP) introduced Turkey is the world’s largest cement remains. reforms to weaken the armies hold on exporter and its construction sector is the country. One of Erdoğan’s earliest second only to that of China. ISLAM actions was to curtail the jurisdiction of the National Security Council to interfere The AKP’s most visible policies have been The West has been impressed by the AKP in government. Erdoğan altered the on the foreign policy front. Many have who they view as Islamic/conservative composition of this council to include termed Turkish manoeuvring in its who run a secular nation. The Turkish civilian members. The National Security neighbourhood as Neo-Ottomanism. In army being staunch secularists accuse

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Erdogan of having a secret Islamic agenda to the Israelis. has linked Turkey to the global economy which will be brought to the forefront and thus it is inevitable Turkey will go when the AKP has completed its grip on The AKP has not used Islam in any way in into recession as the global economy all aspects of ruling. its foreign policy. Rather then rallying the declines. Muslim rulers against Israel or even In analysing the claim that the AKP seeking to end the occupation of Al Quds The praise for the Turkish model is represents an Islamic model of itself – which Turkey is capable of – mostly from Western capitals and this is governance an examination of its key Erdogan has pursued a narrow set of because it is something the West can polices highlights that Islam has played pragmatic polices and littered them with work with. Turkey under Erdogan has no role in any of the AKP’s policies other a few Islamic slogans. manufactured a sense of importance by then the rhetoric fed to the masses. The allowing itself to become yet another tool economy and foreign policy have been The US continues to pursue a colonial of Western foreign policy. This pragmatic the main symbols of the AKP, and both agenda in the Muslim world but this has and non-Islamic position is what gets are driven by factors other than Islam. not stopped the AKP growing close to much praise in Western capitals. the US. The AKP has in Iraq and Palestine Turkey’s economic growth, development strengthened the hand of the US by The adoption of secularism allows one to and trade have had nothing to do with constructing polices that aid them. Turkey choose which parts of Islam to Islam but short term pragmatic polices to has also sided with Obama and NATO implement. Erdogan has made some shore up the AKP’s support. Whilst there against Syria and held a meeting for attempts in removing the hijab ban in is no doubt that under the AKP the Syrian opposition groups in Anatolia. Turkey, but for example has done nothing Turkish economy has developed and with regards to the legalisation of there is more wealth today in Turkey then Much of the rhetoric of Islam has not adultery or the removal of interest in there was a decade ago, it has all been come from the AKP but from those banking. built on the same non-sustainable Interest opposed to them and from the West. based debt driven growth that is slowly Erdogan in his recent trip to Egypt All of these factors are what the West can choking the Western world today. expressed hope for “a secular state in work with and for these reasons the West Erdogan and the AKP have not used Egypt”, he went further and outlined that cannot stop singing the praises of foreign trade to propagate Islam, neither “The Turkish state is in its core a state of Erdogan. This pragmatic model in reality has it used its relations with the likes of freedoms and secularism.” dilutes Islam by making it fit with China, Russia, Brazil or India to propagate pragmatic, nationalist and interest driven Islam. In order to shore up support for Erdogan’s domestic agenda has also been polices. All of this shows that Islam plays the AKP Erdogan developed economic mainly to weaken the hand of the army a very small factor for the AKP, polices to bring money into Turkey whilst in Turkish politics rather then creating a supposedly meeting Turkish interests is enriching the business elite. society based on Islam. Domestic reforms what has driven the AKP and this largely have centred on changing the includes fulfilling US interests. Islam has played virtually no role in composition and elections of judges and Turkey’s foreign policy. The most obvious army personnel. Similarly the proposals CONCLUSIONS example of this is Erdogan’s continuation for changes to the Turkish constitution of Turkish relations with Israel which is are not for the Islamic sources to become Turkey does not represent a new model something Islam expressly prohibits. sources of legislation but to empower the of governance; it is in reality as secular role of the president, which Erdogan has and national interest driven as the nations Whilst AKP officials continue to cite the his eyes on. Domestically, rather than of the West. As the Arab spring continues surrounding neighbours as Muslim unifying with the Kurds who are mainly to take shape, what the region needs is brothers and its own region as former Muslims, Erdogan has carried out a not another Capitalist state with a few Ottoman territories this is where the role combination of normalisation exercises Islamic rules that cover its fundamentally of Islam comes to an end. Since coming whilst carrying out military action secular nature. Secular states have a to power the AKP has grown very close simultaneously. The killing of Muslims is number of issues that are common to all to the US, the relations with the US have something Islam expressly prohibits. of them, such as misdistribution of not been with the aim of weakening the wealth, political corruption and social US policies against the Muslim world or THE WEST’S FASCINATION WITH breakdown. Turkey’s rulers are sadly complicating them. In fact the AKP has THE TURKISH MODEL continuing down this well-worn and worked to implement US global polices discredited path, and may Allah (swt) and played the role of willing agent. The Turkish model of governance is in protect us all from such contemptible Turkey has played a central role in reality one driven by nationalism and is behaviour. indirect negotiations in 2011 between pragmatic in nature with some Islamic n the Palestinian factions and Israel to bring slogans. As the AKP has been successful a settlement to the issues which requires with the economy this has given it an the abandoning of large swathes of land aura of strength, however the economy www.khilafah.eu Khilafah Magazine :: April 2012 :: 23 hizb.org.uk

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